FAQ's

Common Questions, Simple Answers

Q. Can I open the train windows?

A. If you’re traveling on a slower train you may have the option to open a window, depending on the age and configuration of the car. However, most modern rail cars are air-conditioned and you won’t have the option of opening the windows.

For safety reasons, high speed trains don’t offer the option of opening windows.

Q. How do I create a Rail Europe account?

A. You can simply click the ’Login’ button found on the top right-hand side of our homepage and select ’create an account’ to register on our site. If you are booking with us, you will also be presented with the option to register during checkout.

Q. I need to cancel my trip to Europe. How do I request reimbursement through the Rail Protection Plan™?

A. Although the Rail Protection Plan™ doesn’t allow you to get reimbursed in case your trip is cancelled, you may be eligible to receive an in-store credit. That in-store credit will be good for two years (from the date the credit is issued) towards your next booking, for the full value of the products covered. You can choose to receive this credit toward a future booking or to request to have your tickets refunded per the after sales policies of the products booked.

If you choose to forego the in-store credit and opt for a refund, the regular exchange and refund rules of your products will apply, and you will be subject to the regular carriers penalties, if applicable, in addition to the Rail Europe booking fee.

Q. Should I buy my rail pass or train ticket before I leave for Europe?

A. Yes. We find that when traveling abroad, it’s always best to book before you depart from home. That way, you’ll arrive with the proper paper documents in-hand and avoid fully booked trains that can disrupt your travel plans. This is especially important during the summer months when trains in Europe tend to sell out quickly due to increased tourism.

Most trains can be reserved 90-days in advance of the day you’d like to travel. Again, it’s best to reserve as soon as possible to guarantee that you’ll have a seat on board.

Q. Why do some German station names have extra characters in the station name?

A. In a few circumstances, German station names are listed with extra characters extended after the official station name. They are of no concern for travellers, and can be disregarded.

Q. Do the train stations offer services to help carry my luggage?

A. Many train stations in Europe have self-service luggage carts that you can use to transport your luggage through the train station. These carts are usually coin-operated and when you return your cart, you’ll get your coin back.

It’s always best to pack light and anticipate that you will need to carry your own luggage. Only a few stations in Europe offer porter services. Also keep in mind that while some stations offer elevators and/or escalators, you may need to carry your luggage up or down stairs to reach the correct train platform.

Q. Are lockers and luggage storage services available at the train station?

A. Most major train stations have a left luggage facility offering either self-serve luggage lockers or staffed luggage facilities.

Keep in mind that there is a fee to store your luggage at a train station. Typically, stations will charge a flat rate to rent a luggage locker that you’re free to fill. For staffed luggage facilities, you may incur a “per bag” fee. In either case, the fee is usually under 10 Euros. If you do leave your bags, be sure to keep some money in your pockets for the luggage lockers.

Q. Who should I contact to book travel for a group of 10 or more people?

A. For groups of 10 or more traveling together please fill out our Group Department form for assistance. If you know what you’re looking for, you can also request a quote online from our Group Department.

Q. I have a business idea or partnership opportunity for you. Whom should I get in touch with?

A. Marketing Opportunities! Do you think you have products or services that could enrich the experience of our customers? Are you interested in exploring joint marketing initiatives? Do you have compelling content for our website?

We’re always looking to hear from potential partners and put our creative energies together for the benefit of our travellers. If you have any thoughts, feel free to drop us an email at opportunities@raileurope.com .

Q. How can I request a brochure from your company?

A. We have made our brochures conveniently available online in an effort to reduce the amount of paper used. You can download Rail Europe’s full-color Europe on Track or Rail Europe Collection brochures.

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